I hate those "what to buy threads" as much as the next guy. So, it is with some degree of trepidation that I'm posting this. Here goes:
I've got the chance to buy a Smith & Wesson 4" .44 Hand Ejector 1st Model in 44 Special. Yep, a Triple Lock. It has a fair amount of holster wear and some light pitting on the frame near the top strap. Also, someone decided to checker the trigger at some point. But, the gun locks up nicely, the bore is shiny and I can't detect any mechanical problems. As near as I can tell, the grips are original and it has never been refinished.
A few questions:
- If I buy this thing, can actually shoot it without risking destroying a neat piece of history?
- Will having it cleaned up and tuned by a reputable revolver smith (Turnbull, Bowen, Cunningham, Etc.) negatively affect it's value since it has already been slightly bubba'd?
- Would you S&W fans out there pick it up if the price was right?
At this point, I'm basically looking to get talked into (or out of) it.